Jamie slams local authorities

TV chef Jamie Oliver has hit out at the ability of local authorities to engage people in food.

In an interview with The Observer, Oliver insisted that his role in the recent Ministry of Food TV series, encouraging locals in Rotherham to cook, was vital: "The reason the Ministry is working in Rotherham is because we went up there and interviewed 30 local boys and girls, and we're not fucking stupid.

"If they [local government] did it, can you imagine what the staff would look like? You could have anyone getting a fucking job! You've got to understand food, love food, and understand people skills."

Oliver revealed that many other local councils were keen to be involved in the Ministry of Food programme, but that he would have to charge them to ensure his involvement.

The TV chef also defended what some TV critics and bloggers have called a patronising portrayal of less-well-off members of society: "It was a snapshot of Britain. If you don't like the smell of shit on your own territory, tough. It's there. It's a mile from any of us.'

'I get my hands dirty. While everyone else knocks out their 20 shows a year, I spend two years making four programmes.'

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